THE Clio will form the main focus of attention at Renault as four new models are introduced during 1999. A new 1.6-litre eight-valve Si arrives this month, with a 1.6-litre 16-valve following towards the end of April.

It will be joined by a 2.0-litre 16-valve and, at the end of the year, the aggressively-styled 3.0-litre V6. The model could also have a common rail diesel option by the end of the year, as could the Laguna.

The Espace receives a 24-valve 3.0-litre V6 engine in place of the current 12-valve, with a launch date pencilled in for next month, while a facelift for the Megane, with new rear light cluster design, will take place during the year, possibly joined by the Scenic towards December. Discussion is taking place about the introduction of an LPG model in the Renault line-up, although talks are at an early stage.